The Osun State Police Command has launched a full-scale manhunt for individuals responsible for the violent clashes that erupted across the state on Monday, leading to multiple casualties. Meanwhile, the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) has dismissed rumors of its office being sealed by military personnel, affirming that the scheduled local government elections will proceed as planned on Saturday.
Violent Clashes Over LG Leadership
The crisis unfolded when sacked local government chairmen and councillors attempted to reclaim their positions, citing a recent judgment by the Court of Appeal in Akure, which overturned their removal by a Federal High Court in Osogbo on November 25, 2022. Members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) moved to enforce the court’s decision, while supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) mobilized to resist them, resulting in violent confrontations at several local government secretariats across the state.
The clashes led to the death of six individuals and widespread destruction of properties in multiple council areas. Among the casualties was a prominent APC chieftain, Remi Abass, who was reportedly killed at the entrance of the Irewole Local Government Secretariat in Ikire. His burial, held on Tuesday, was conducted in accordance with Islamic rites and was attended by political associates and key APC leaders in the state.
Police Vow Justice, Deploy Reinforcements
In response to the crisis, the Osun State Police Command has assured residents that justice will be served. The command’s spokesperson, Yemisi Opalola, released a statement on Tuesday expressing deep condolences to the families of those affected and confirming that an extensive investigation is underway to apprehend those responsible for the killings and unrest.
“The tragic events of Monday led to the loss of six lives and left many hospitalized. The Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Abba, has assured the public of a thorough investigation, and those found culpable will face the full weight of the law,” Opalola stated.
She urged residents to remain calm, cooperate with law enforcement agencies, and allow security operatives to restore peace to the state. Opalola also warned against further attempts to incite violence, reiterating that Osun State is known for peace and stability.
To strengthen security, the Inspector General of Police has deployed additional mobile police units to Osun State, reinforcing the efforts of the state command in maintaining law and order.
OSSIEC Confirms Election Will Hold as Planned
Amid the tension, the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission has assured residents that the local government elections will proceed as scheduled on February 22, 2025. In a statement issued on Tuesday by the commission’s Information Officer, Sadiat Isiaka, OSSIEC refuted reports that its premises had been sealed off by military personnel.
“OSSIEC wishes to inform the public that reports claiming the commission’s office has been sealed are false. Our premises remain secure, with adequate security provided by a joint team of the police, DSS, NSCDC, NDLEA, Amotekun Corps, and local vigilante groups,” the statement read.
Isiaka urged the electorate to disregard misinformation and prepare to exercise their voting rights on Saturday, assuring that all necessary security measures have been put in place for a smooth electoral process.
APC Mourns Slain Chieftain, Calls for Restraint
Following the killing of Abass, the leadership of the Osun APC has called for restraint among its members. The party’s state chairman, Tajudeen Lawal, condemned the act as inhumane and senseless, describing the political violence as a setback for democracy in the state.
As a mark of respect for their fallen colleague, Lawal instructed all local government chairmen and councillors to stay away from their offices until further notice. He also commended party members for adhering to the Court of Appeal ruling that reinstated them to office.
NANS Urges President Tinubu to Intervene
Concerned about the escalating tension, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene and prevent further loss of lives. In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abeokuta, Ogun State, and signed by the Clerk of the Senate, NANS National Headquarters, Abdul-Yekinn Odunayo, the student body stressed the urgency of resolving the crisis before it spirals out of control.
“The political crisis in Osun State has already claimed six lives. We call on President Tinubu and all relevant stakeholders to act swiftly to restore peace and prevent further bloodshed,” the statement read.
Calm Returns as Security Tightened
As of Tuesday, most local government secretariats in the state remained locked, with minimal security presence reported at some locations. In areas such as Olorunda Local Government in Igbona and Osogbo Local Government in Oke Baale, there was little to no activity, as political tensions remained high.
Despite the lingering uncertainty, security agencies have assured the public of a robust response to any attempt to disrupt the peace of the state. The police have reiterated their commitment to ensuring a violence-free election and a thorough probe into the recent crisis.
With the local government elections just days away, all eyes remain on Osun State as authorities work tirelessly to restore normalcy and ensure a peaceful democratic process.
